Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa eyes Sira victory, to hit campaign trail next week

October 18, 2020

BENGALURU: Come next week, chief minister BS Yediyurappa will hit the campaign trail for the November 3 assembly bypolls in Sira and RR Nagar. He is likely to address at least tworallies each in both the constituencies.
Though the bypolls will not have any impact on the future of the state government, it will certainly have some bearing on the fate of Yediyurappa with reports of a change of guard doing the rounds in political circles, experts said.
A sweeping victory will help his cause as it will send a strong message to detractors within the party and also to the opposition Congress.
According to insiders, the party is working on details of Yediyurappa’s visit and also on holding virtual rallies, considering the Covid-19 restrictions imposed by the Election Commission.
“The dates have not been finalised yet, but he’ll surely campaign in both constituencies from next week. Party members have sought Yediyurappa’s presence for 2-3 days before campaign ends on November 1 to set the mood of voters,” said a CMO staffer.

A dozen cabinet ministers have already been campaigning in these seats. While the ruling BJP had won in RR Nagar constituency in 2008, it is yet to open its account in Sira.
For Yediyurappa, winning Sira will be of more significance. First, it will be an affirmation by the people for his one-year rule. Second, it will politically establish his son and state BJP vice-president BY Vijayendra, who has been entrusted with the campaign to re-establish his political career since opposition parties have been making serious allegations against him.

“He had also played an important role in the party’s maiden victory at KR Pet last year. If he wins Sira, it will silence his detractors within the party. Also, it will give the CM a strong reason to demand major responsibility for Vijayendra who is already being projected as his successor,” a BJP functionary said.
Opposition parties have been accusing the BJP government of failing in all fronts, especially in combating the Covid-19 crisis, besides indulging in large-scale corruption.

Recently, the Congress had cornered Yediyurappa in the assembly with corruption charges against his family members.
Dismissing them, Yediyurappa had dared the opposition to face the election on these issues and see the results.